8 reasons why structural steel frames are advantageous for any building project

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Introduction

Timber, concrete, and steel are all common materials used in constructing structures, and arguments could be made as to why each of these materials might suit a given project.

Steel framing is a construction method in which steel columns and beams are assembled to create a support for floors, roofs, cladding, internal fixtures, finishings and occupants. This article will look at the advantages of steel frames over other construction materials and why they are a common choice in modern buildings.

Steel has a higher density than timber or concrete which means that for the same dimensions, steel will be heavier. However, a length of 50mm x 100mm steel will be able to carry more load than the same length of 50mm x 100mm timber. In practice, this means that less steel is necessary to provide the same amount of support.

The consequences of this decrease in material use are reduced material shipping costs, reduced labour and simplified design of foundations and other structural supports.

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Longevity

Steel can last longer than timber or concrete, assuming that all three are properly maintained.

Unlike timber, steel does not split, crack, or creep as it ages. It is not vulnerable to insect attack and lacks porosity, so mould and mildew cannot grow. It does not warp, rot, or expand when there is an increase in moisture. However, contact with water must be prevented as corrosion may result.

To protect the steel, a coating of fire-resistant and water-resistant material must be applied. The fire-resistant material prevents the steel from losing its strength and integrity in a fire while the water-resistant material prevents rusting.

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Versatility

Structural steel can be fabricated into different shapes while still maintaining its strength. The use of steel allows for creative and innovative designs. Architects and other designers use this capability to create structures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound.

Structural steel also allows for the creation of large-span buildings such as indoor arenas and aircraft hangars, as well as the capability to build very high skyscrapers, bridges and other structures.

It is also easy to future-proof steel frames because they are more conducive to structural addition or modification, such as renovations or expanding the size of an existing building.

The use of computer modelling before fabrication reduces the amount of scrap steel produced.

Any scrap that is produced can be recycled for use in other projects. Steel is endlessly recyclable because it does not lose any inherent properties such as strength when it is melted down and recast.

It is possible to reuse timber by transforming it into other things, such as tables or chairs, but there will come a time when the scrap wood is too small or the shape is too awkward to work with. Concrete can also be broken down for use in future mixes, but is only successfully used for works such as pavements.

The tensile strength of steel frames allows them to perform well under a range of natural phenomena such as hurricanes, seismic activity and snow loads. These phenomena become more problematic as the structure becomes higher. Steel also performs better in man-made emergencies such as explosions and impact.

On lower structures, timber offers enough flexibility but there will also be a fire risk. Steel is non-combustible so it is not a fire risk but, unlike concrete, its strength becomes compromised when subject to extreme temperatures. However, concrete in itself is not very flexible so its tensile strength must be increased by reinforcing it with steel.

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Faster build-times

Computer-assisted manufacturing of standardised bolted connections and repetitive floor plates make production faster while standardisation and regulatory policies have made structural steel components dependable and easy to erect.

The steel frames are prefabricated offsite to fit a certain specification before being sent to the construction site. After they are sent out, they are immediately ready to be assembled by bolting or welding the pieces together, unlike in-situ concrete, where it is necessary to wait for a section to cure before continuing the construction.

There is also no need for temporary formwork which needs to be assembled and then dismantled afterward, delaying the construction as well as producing waste.

Since steel frames are fabricated off-site, on-site labour can be reduced by 10%-20%. Fewer workers also mean fewer accidents.

Shorter construction times result in less financing costs, fewer interest payments, and means that the building can be used or rented as soon as possible for faster payback.

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Steel is durable so maintenance costs in terms of repairs and replacements can be lower. Insurance companies may also offer cheaper premium insurance for structures that are constructed with steel because of their ability to withstand decay, pests, and natural disasters.

By being stronger, bays within steel frames can be spaced wider apart, which also creates wider bays. The wider available space allows for more flexible floor designs that can maximise the available space. Although concrete is also strong, it has a more limited floor-to-floor construction height as well as inferior spanning.

In housing, the use of steel can reduce the need for load-bearing timber posts, thereby maximising floor space in an age of sky-rocketing property prices.

Steel frames have many other benefits. They can be constructed in any weather, and are easily adaptable to sudden design changes. They can also be easier to maintain assuming the frame is accessible for inspection.

However, the advent of hybrid construction materials has resulted in, e.g metal-reinforced timber beams, as well as fibre-reinforced concrete. These 'composite' materials demonstrate that they can not only be stronger than the individual components but are also cost-effective.

To find steel framing for your project, explore our comprehensive directory of steel frame manufacturers from around the globe. Whether you need trusses, walls, or floors, our directory connects you with trusted suppliers who can provide the right frames for your needs. Visitto discover top-quality steel framing suppliers and bring your project to life.

Steel framing can speed up construction time due to its prefabricated components and ease of assembly, reducing labor costs and project timelines.

How does steel framing impact construction time? Steel framing can speed up construction time due to its prefabricated components and ease of assembly, reducing labor costs and project timelines.

The initial cost of steel framing can be higher than wood, but its durability, reduced maintenance costs, and other long-term benefits often offset the higher upfront investment.

Is steel framing more expensive than wood framing? The initial cost of steel framing can be higher than wood, but its durability, reduced maintenance costs, and other long-term benefits often offset the higher upfront investment.

Steel is highly recyclable, and steel framing generates less waste compared to traditional methods. Its durability also means fewer resources are needed for repairs and replacements.

Is steel framing environmentally friendly? Steel is highly recyclable, and steel framing generates less waste compared to traditional methods. Its durability also means fewer resources are needed for repairs and replacements.

Modern steel framing is often treated with protective coatings to prevent rust and corrosion, making it suitable for a wide range of environments, including coastal areas.

Does steel framing rust or corrode? Modern steel framing is often treated with protective coatings to prevent rust and corrosion, making it suitable for a wide range of environments, including coastal areas.

What is cold formed steel framing?

What is light gauge steel framing?

Light Gauge Steel (LGS) Framing is a construction method that uses thin, lightweight steel sections to create structural frameworks for buildings. Known for its strength, durability, and precision, LGS is a popular choice in modern construction, particularly for residential and commercial projects.

LGS is manufactured by cold-forming thin sheets of steel into specific shapes at room temperature. This process results in strong, yet lightweight, components that are easy to transport and assemble. Because of its high strength-to-weight ratio, LGS Framing offers significant design flexibility while also being resistant to common issues like rot, termites, and warping.

How well does steel framing protect against earthquakes?

Positive connections and the strength of steel provide great protection against earthquake and hurricanes. A lighter structure with stronger connections results in less damage from seismic force. Steel&#;s high ductility makes it the best construction material for earthquake-resistant design.

Is a steel frame safe from lightning in storms?